The winger came off the bench for his Premier League debut and three minutes later rifled home his first goal to see Wolves on their way to victory.
Jonny Otto added the second late on as Nuno’s side enjoyed another afternoon to remember in the Premier League, where his squad produced when it matters.
“A goal changes everything,” he said. “It was Ivan today, another day it will be another one. The important thing is the team and the squad, what we want to build together.
“I expect the best from my boys because they work very hard. They win because they work hard and are better than the opponent, our idea was stronger so it pleased me.”
Although the Saints asked questions in the second half, Wolves remained firm and were able to reward their organisation with two late strikes at Molineux.
“The belief is there, most important is the clean sheet. You can always win a match when you’re defensively organised, that is the starting point.
“I was happy because I saw my team work really hard against a tough opponent, it was not easy. Southampton caused us some problems, but we managed to stay in the game and I think it was a deserved win.
“In the second half both teams created situations so it was tough, but in the end I think we deserved the three points.”
The victory was Wolves’ second in succession on home soil, continuing the positive form which proved so indispensable during last season’s promotion.
“It’s a case of continuing to do what we were doing last season in the Championship. We maintain our identity and style of play, we train like this, so we must play like this.
“Against Burnley we had 30 shots and scored once, today we had for sure less but scored twice. This is why we love football, it’s unpredictable.
“The Wolves supporters must be pleased with his team, must be happy at Molineux. When we go away they’ll come with us to Crystal Palace.”
